We had previously been told by law enforcement officials that Pippen had been arrested. That was not the case.

TMZ broke the story ... Pippen allegedly brutalized an autograph seeker outside Nobu restaurant Sunday night. The man was knocked out after Pippen allegedly punched him in the face and kicked him repeatedly.

Pippen left the scene. As for the victim ... he was taken to a hospital with serious injuries, including broken teeth and a swollen mouth. He also suffered injuries to his head and back.

Pippen was subsequently named as a suspect for a felony charge of assault with intent to commit great bodily injury.